Down by the River with DTU

Recently, our two DSISD high school interns met up with Trevor, a student from Metro who has a degree in wildlife conservation. As we took a walk down the South Platte River in downtown Denver, Trevor pointed out different types of trees and plants that live alongside the river that are both native and invasive to Colorado. He talked to us about the importance of the river to the wildlife that lives alongside it, and how the invasive plants are harmful to the riparian ecosystem. After our walk, we sat by the confluence and asked Trevor a few questions; some about his love of fly-fishing, and others about what he does at Denver Trout Unlimited (DTU). We also asked him what he does in college and what advice he could give us about college.

---

What does Trevor do at Denver Trout Unlimited?
   He is a member of the Board and is the Sponsorship Coordinator. This means that he helps bring in big companies that donate money to help with DTU's efforts.
What is the goal of the organization?
     The goal is to clean the South Platte River and to teach the public about how to help keep the river clean what they can do to make a difference.
What is Trevor's favorite thing about fly-fishing?
      His favorite thing is just being in the water and watching the nature around him. Catching fish is great, too - but mostly it's about finding time to just be in the outdoors and appreciate the beauty in nature.
What makes fly-fishing different from other types of fishing?
      Fly- fishing is safer for the fish because the flies are much smaller and less intrusive for the fish. They think they are eating the flies. In contrast, spin fishing often uses a three-pronged hook that can be detrimental to the fish because when it is removed it often tears up the fish's insides. With traditional spin fishing, the bait is something shiny and eye-catching, and the fish goes after it in a predatory move. With fly fishing, the fish goes after the lure thinking it's food. Fly fishing is safer for the fish because it is less likely to maim or kill the fish, and is a safer, truer form of catch and release.
What is Trevor studying in college and where does he go?
      He is getting a degree in Environmental Engineering from Metro State University.
What advice would he give a high schooler that is interested in college?
      Don’t blindly rush into college because that's what's expected, if that's not the right move for you. You should really know what you are passionate about and make sure you are ready, to make it a valuable and worthwhile experience.
What is Trevor's favorite fish? Why?
      His favorite fish is the Native Greenback Cutthroat Trout - Colorado's state fish! This trout is his favorite because it is only found in the most pristine mountain conditions, and you can only catch them for about 3 months out of the year!

---